Kate Bush shares heartfelt tribute following friend’s tragic death

Kate Bush is mourning the loss of her close friend Matthew Upham, who died in a tragic swimming incident on Christmas Day in Devon, England.

As per PEOPLE report, on Sunday, December 28, the English singer shared a heartfelt tribute on her website following Upham’s death at Budleigh Salterton beach. Upham was an antiques dealer and had been friends with Bush for three decades.

“As you might have heard on the news. Matthew Upham was one of the swimmers who went missing in the sea in Devon on Christmas Day. Matthew was one of my very dearest friends. I’d known him for thirty years,” Bush wrote.

Bush described him as someone who left a lasting impression on everyone he met, she said, “He was one of those people who touched everyone he met. He was extraordinarily kind, thoughtful and lived life to the full. He was also a great deal of fun.”

The Army Dreamers hitmaker added. “His family are heartbroken and along with many of his friends, so am I.”

Kate Bush also highlighted Upham’s experience in the water, saying, “Matthew was a very strong swimmer. He had a great love for kayaking. He understood the sea should be respected. It’s so tragic that he lost his life this way.”

The 67-year-old musician concluded her tribute by writing, “The world has lost someone incredibly special. Thank you, Matthew for being one of the best friends anyone could have.”

According to the BBC, police were alerted on the morning of December 25 after two swimmers were reported missing during an annual Christmas Day swim.

While several people were rescued and treated as the search for the two men was later called off that evening.

For the unversed, the singer's late friend Matthew Upham's family confirmed the news of his tragic death on Instagram.